From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
The Senate has summoned the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to address the growing use of harmful chemicals by fruit sellers to artificially ripen fruits across Nigeria.
The action follows a motion by Senator Ani Anthony Okorle on Wednesday, May 21, titled “Urgent need to investigate and halt the continuous unwholesome practice of chemical ripening of fruits in Nigeria.”
During the Senate debate, Okorle explained, “Ripening of fruits is a natural process that improves sweetness, taste, nutrition, and shelf life. However, many sellers now use harmful chemicals to make fruits appear attractive and ripen faster.”
He noted that while some use safer substances like ethylene and methyl jasmonate, others opt for dangerous alternatives such as calcium carbide, ethylene glycol, and ethephon, which contain impurities like arsenic and lead.
“Experts and regulatory agencies have warned that these chemicals can cause serious health problems such as cancer, kidney and liver failure, neurological disorders, and even death,” Okorle stated. He expressed concern that the practice is increasing, driven by profit motives.
“Many fruit sellers are unaware of the health hazards, and consumers unknowingly buy toxic fruits because they look appealing,” he added.
Okorle noted that some of these chemicals are banned in many countries but remain in use in Nigeria. “We must protect public health and prevent our fruit markets from becoming toxic zones,” he urged.
The Senate adopted the motion, directing NAFDAC, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate chemical fruit ripening. It also called for intensified public awareness campaigns by NAFDAC, the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and relevant ministries on the dangers of consuming artificially ripened fruits.
Additionally, the Senate urged the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service and the Nigerian Customs Service to ensure imported fruits, particularly apples, are free from harmful preservatives. Lawmakers requested regular inspections of fruit markets by NAFDAC and FCCPC to curb the use of dangerous chemicals.
To strengthen enforcement, the Senate directed its Committee on Legal Matters to amend laws to impose stricter penalties for offenders. It also mandated its Committees on Health and Agriculture to summon NAFDAC for a briefing on actions taken and planned measures to stop the practice.